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Lindblom thriving in new role as starter

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By Dave Sessions
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Special to MLB.com |

ARLINGTON -- After a disappointing spring as a reliever, the Rangers' Josh Lindblom has been working to reinvent himself as a starter at Triple-A Round Rock. He has been successful enough there to earn the opportunity to start Monday's game against Oakland.

Lindblom, 25, has thrown 100 2/3 innings in 101 games in the Major Leagues, including 23 1/3 innings in 26 games for Philadelphia last season, compiling a career 3.31 ERA. But he has never started a game in the Majors. He will be filling in for Alexi Ogando, who is on the disabled list.

The Rangers decided to make him a starter after he failed to make the club in the bullpen. The results: a 2.08 ERA and 4-0 record over seven starts in Triple-A. Lindblom said he appreciates the new chance as a starter.

"This is an organization that really wants to get the most out of every player they have and I'm thankful for that opportunity," Lindblom said. "It really is a testament to the development staff here. They believe in their players and they want to get the most out of their careers."

Lindblom said he has lost 10-15 pounds in an effort to increase his endurance. He's also working with four pitches now as a starter.

"Out of the bullpen, you really just kind of bring in a two-pitch mix, a fastball and an out pitch," Lindblom said. "I'm able to use the changeup, slider, curveball, use all of them and keep hitters off balance. I'm able to mix my pitches and use all my pitches and just kind of work my whole repertoire and not be limited as a pitcher."

Dave Sessions is a contributor to MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.